Things To Do
in Ithaca
Ithaca is a city located in upstate New York known for its natural beauty and vibrant community. Home to Cornell University and Ithaca College, the city has a diverse population and a strong academic influence. With its stunning gorges, waterfalls, and expansive green spaces, Ithaca offers plenty of outdoor activities for residents and visitors to enjoy.
The local food scene is also highly praised, featuring farm-to-table dining options and a thriving farmers market.
Prices
- 🏠 Accommodation (per night): $80 - $200
- 🍽️ Meal at a Restaurant: $15 - $40
- ☕ Coffee: $3 - $5
- 🚌 Public transport ticket (single journey): $1.50 - $3
- 🛒 Grocery shopping (per week): $50 - $100
- 🏋️♂️ Gym Membership: $30 - $70
Day Trips
Spend a day exploring around
Start your day with a visit to the stunning Cornell University campus. Enjoy breakfast at a local café while taking in views of the gorges.
Spend your afternoon hiking the beautiful Cascadilla Gorge Trail. Capture some photos of the waterfalls and lush scenery along the way.
Dine at a farm-to-table restaurant and experience local flavors. Afterward, take a leisurely stroll by Ithaca Commons to enjoy the local shops.
Head to Buttermilk Falls State Park for a morning hike. Explore the trails and admire the cascading waterfalls.
Pack a picnic and relax by the swimming area in the park. Enjoy the surrounding nature and soak up the sun.
Visit a local brewery for a tasting session. Pair your drinks with some snacks and unwind after an active day.
Strengths and Weaknesses
- Beautiful natural scenery, including gorges and waterfalls
- Home to a vibrant arts and culture scene, including festivals and markets
- Diverse educational opportunities with Cornell University and Ithaca College
- Strong sense of community and involvement in local affairs
- Access to various outdoor activities, such as hiking, boating, and skiing
- Higher cost of living compared to some other areas in upstate New York
- Cold winters with heavy snowfall, which may not be ideal for everyone
- Limited job market outside of education and healthcare sectors
- Potential issues with housing availability and affordability
- Public transportation options may be limited compared to larger cities
Best Activities in Ithaca
Outdoor fun you shouldn't miss!
Explore the beautiful gorges and waterfalls on well-maintained trails.
Visit the various gorges and waterfalls in the Ithaca area, such as Taughannock Falls and Robert H. Treman State Park.
Enjoy a day on the water while taking in the scenic views of Cayuga Lake.
Tours
Uncover the best of Ithaca with these unforgettable tours.
Places to Visit in Ithaca
Visit one of these nice places.
Offers stunning views of one of the highest waterfalls in the eastern United States
Beautiful campus with picturesque views of Cayuga Lake and the surrounding hills
Scenic waterfall located right in the city of Ithaca
Picturesque trail with several waterfalls and natural beauty
Food in Ithaca
Ithaca Famous Food
Signature dishes, delicacies and famous food
Offering an impressive array of fresh produce, artisanal goods, and ready-to-eat treats, the Ithaca Farmers Market is a must-visit for an authentic taste of the region. Visitors can savor local dishes such as apple cider donuts, gourmet cheeses, and farm-fresh vegetables while taking in the scenic waterfront views of Cayuga Lake.
Must-Try!
Garlic lovers should not miss the annual Garlic Festival in Ithaca, where they can indulge in unique offerings like garlic ice cream, garlic-infused dishes, and a variety of garlic-themed culinary delights. This lively event celebrates the pungent bulb in all its glory, attracting foodies from near and far.
Unique Experiences
Get to know Ithaca better with these unique experiences.
Food Markets
Explore local food markets
As a renowned pioneer in vegetarian cuisine, Moosewood Restaurant has been delighting diners with its globally-inspired, plant-based dishes since 1973. With a commitment to utilizing fresh, seasonal ingredients from local farms, this iconic eatery offers an expansive menu featuring flavorful vegetarian and vegan options to satisfy discerning palates.
For a delectable taste of Mexican street food in Ithaca, Viva Taqueria & Cantina is a standout choice. This lively eatery treats patrons to authentic tacos, burritos, and other Mexican street fare, showcasing bold flavors and vibrant culinary traditions. The vibrant atmosphere and tempting aromas make it a favored spot for locals and visitors alike.
Weather
How to Behave
Tips on cultural norms and respectful behavior
In Ithaca, it is important to respect and celebrate diversity, including different cultural backgrounds, beliefs, and identities.
The Ithaca community values environmental sustainability and conservation, so being mindful of your environmental impact is appreciated.
Engaging in active listening and being open-minded when discussing various topics is a key aspect of respectful behavior in Ithaca.
Hidden Gems
Discover the hidden gems of Ithaca with these exclusive activities.
Safety
Tipping in Ithaca
Ensure a smooth experience
In Ithaca, tipping is a common practice in the service industry, including restaurants, bars, and for services such as hairdressing and taxi rides. It is customary to tip between 15-20% of the total bill for good service.
In Ithaca, United States, cash, credit/debit cards, and mobile payment options are widely accepted for transactions. Many businesses also accept digital payment services such as Apple Pay and Google Pay. Contactless payment methods have become increasingly popular in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Best Time to Visit
And what to expect in different seasons...
Best time to visit Ithaca, with blooming flowers and pleasant weather for outdoor activities such as hiking and exploring waterfalls.
Warm temperatures and ideal for swimming in the nearby lakes and enjoying outdoor festivals and events in the region.
The famous foliage season with stunning autumn colors, perfect for hiking, apple picking, and wine tasting in the Finger Lakes region.
Cold and snow-covered landscapes, providing opportunities for winter sports such as skiing, snowshoeing, and ice skating.
Ithaca at Night
Hiking in Ithaca
Immerse in an unforgettable hike.
Home to gorgeous waterfalls and a variety of hiking trails, this state park offers beautiful views and a chance to explore natural beauty.
Known for its stunning gorges and waterfalls, this park features several miles of hiking trails ranging from easy to challenging.
A scenic trail that runs through Cascadilla Gorge with waterfalls, bridges, and stunning rock formations that provide a unique hiking experience.
Along with its beautiful gardens, there are numerous trails offering peaceful walks with views of nature and the surrounding hills.
Part of the Finger Lakes Trail system, this park offers a network of trails for hikers of all skill levels with lush wooded landscapes.
A popular spot for both hiking and hang gliding, offering trails with amazing vistas over the gorge and lake.
Aiports
How to reach Ithaca by plane.
Located approximately 65 miles north of Ithaca, this airport offers a range of domestic and limited international flights.
Situated about 90 miles west of Ithaca, ROC serves various domestic and several international destinations.
Located approximately 130 miles northwest of Ithaca, this airport provides numerous domestic flights and international connections.
About 130 miles east of Ithaca, Albany International offers domestic flights and a few international options.
Located around 200 miles southeast of Ithaca, EWR is a major international hub with extensive flight options worldwide.
Walkability
Demographics
Explore demographics in this area.
The largest demographic group in Ithaca, primarily consisting of non-Hispanic whites.
Includes a diverse population with individuals of East Asian, South Asian, and Southeast Asian descent.
Represents a significant portion of the population, with a rich cultural presence.
A growing demographic group with origins from various Spanish-speaking countries.
Individuals who identify with two or more racial categories.
Includes individuals from indigenous groups across North America.
A smaller demographic group with origins from Pacific Island nations.
Popular Sports
Explore popular sports in region.
A popular sport at both high school and college levels, particularly with the presence of Cornell University.
Widely played among youth and adults, with many recreational leagues and competitive teams.
Played in schools and recreational leagues, with a passionate following during local and college games.
An increasingly popular sport in the region, with teams at various levels including youth and college.
A well-followed sport in local schools, particularly among female athletes.
A popular activity with numerous running clubs and events such as the Ithaca Festival 5K.
Gaining popularity, with events featuring swimming, biking, and running in the beautiful Finger Lakes region.
A popular sport among youth and adults, with local teams and leagues.
Traffic
Accomodations
Find the best place to stay when visiting Ithaca.
Dietary Restrictions
Tips for restricted diets.
Ithaca caters to vegetarians and vegans with its abundance of eateries specializing in plant-based cuisine. From Moosewood Restaurant to diverse ethnic eateries, visitors will find an array of vegetarian and vegan-friendly dishes showcasing the city's commitment to inclusivity and culinary innovation.
Travelers with gluten sensitivities can explore the city's many dining establishments that prioritize offering gluten-free options. From dedicated gluten-free bakeries to restaurants with gluten-conscious menus, Ithaca ensures individuals with dietary restrictions can savor diverse and satisfying dining experiences.